American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October is freed, his organization says

Niamey, Niger — An American missionary who was kidnapped in October has been released, his organization reported on Friday. Kevin Rideout, who is in good health under the care of U.S. officials, will soon be reunited with his family, according to SIM International, a Christian group based in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The family expressed gratitude for the prayers received from around the world, particularly from their SIM family.

The circumstances surrounding his release remain undisclosed. The incident occurred outside Rideout's residence in Niamey's capital on October 21, when he was abducted by three armed individuals, possibly transported away from the area. No group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. Multiple sources indicated that the attack occurred near the presidential palace, where ousted President Mohamed Bazoum had been residing since his removal from power following a coup in July 2023.

This coup reinstated General Abdourahamane Tiani, who now oversees a military junta focused on restoring security. Niger has historically experienced attacks from various armed groups, including those linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS. The U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security alert shortly after Rideout's kidnapping, warning American citizens of heightened kidnapping risks throughout Niger, including the capital.

In June, an attack on the main airport in Niamey resulted in the deaths of over 30 individuals, marking the second such incident this year at the strategic hub hosting the military's air force base and most of its drones and aircraft. The growing targeting of cities and urban centers in Africa's Sahel region is further evidence of the escalating threat from armed groups.

The New York Times first reported Rideout's release, revealing that the 50-year-old missionary had been working in Niger for 19 years as a pilot for SIM International, a global evangelical mission agency.